Billy Ray Harris returned the engagement ring to Sarah Darling after she accidentally threw it into his change cup while sparing him a few coins

After returning the ring Ms Darling's husband set up the donations page which raised an astonishing amount of money

They are now in regular contact and Mr Harris is enjoying getting to know nieces and nephews he never knew he had.

He told TODAY: 'When I think of the past, I think, thank God that it's over. I feel human now.'

Mr Harris is grateful for the way his life has been turned around with the help of strangers.

He said: 'This is what they call the American Dream.

'I want to thank all the people that
helped me out. I want them to see where all their efforts, blessings and
kindness is going.'

As well as being able to buy himself a house and car Mr Harris, was reunited with his long lost family after his name made headlines around the world

During a television interview, Mr Harris's estranged family who live 640 miles away surprised him with a visit. The man's brothers and sisters feared he was dead after not having contact with him for 16 years

Sarah Darling is glad Mr Harris has been able to turn his life around since returning the ring which cost $4,000

Billy Ray has become good friends with Bill Krejci since he returned the ring in March

He has made lifelong friends in Ms Darling and Mr Krejci, who he regularly goes to hockey games with.

The couple have a 20-month-old daughter who they hope to introduce to Mr Harris to show her 'the difference between what's right and wrong.'

Ms Darling is relieved she was able to play a part in helping the honest man.

Speaking to Today, she said: 'A lot of people came together to change this person's life when he is someone who really deserves thats, blessings and kindness is going.'